I often get calls from friends and family members asking me how they can find a good nursing home for a loved one in need. This is not an easy process due to the emotions that having to place a loved one in a nursing home brings up for them. They usually reach out to me because I work in the industry.
Now I am biased and will recommend one of my nursing homes that I know provides the quality care they are wanting to receive. They don’t always pick one due to proximity of where they may live.
So that being said what other advice do I usually share. I do tell them to go and visit the nursing home that they are interested in. To visit on different shifts as well. Also, I tell them to get a sense of what is occurring for activities, mealtime and to observe the culture of the nursing home. What do I mean by culture? Is it a culture of having staff that is friendly and can they speak the language of your loved one. I also advise them to pay attention for odors, residents up in hallways not dressed, dignity issues, and if staff smiles and says hello while you are touring. While on a unit to pay attention to staff answering a call light.
They should inquire re: visiting procedures, as well as ancillary activities provided such as dental and vision services. How often a MD sees the resident and if the MD has a RNP when they are not available. They should ask what type of care issues they are adept to care for such as IVF, Respiratory programs, Cardiac programs, Dementia Care, and rehab speciality. Do they attend any appointments with your loved one who has Dementia or are you expected to be available to go. What systems are in place if your loved one wanders or is a fall risk.
They should also review nursing home Compare to do just that. You can compare the quality measure reports side by side for all facilities.
This service is not just for skilled nursing homes but also allows you to compare physicians, hospitals, Dialysis and Hospice companies to name a few services.
Please see site available at:
https://www.medicare.gov/care-compare/
CMS also has a guide to help you with all the areas that should be explored when placing a loved one. Please see at:
It is never an easy decision to make when you are confronted with having to make this decision. I hope the links above help you in your journey if you are currently facing this challenge. Please reach out If you are unsure of how to take on this task and I will gladly answer any questions you may have.
The information presented is informative and does not constitute direct legal or regulatory advice
September 2024\Skilled Nursing Support\maria.messina@skillednursingsupport.com
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March 2023/ Skilled nursing support/maria.messina@skillednursingsupport.com
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